West Ham have struggled to find consistency at the start of the season, losing seven of their opening 13 Premier League matches.
The Hammers have found it difficult in the final third, where a lack of a recognised centre-forward has left Manuel Pellegrini’s attack looking rather blunt at times – although Marko Arnautovic has done well when called upon.
With Javier Hernandez struggling to rekindle the sort of form he showed previously with Manchester United and Andy Carroll only just returning from another injury setback, West Ham are crying out for inspiration in their attack – and some fans want to see a young starlet earn his chance.
Xande Silva was signed by the Hammers in the summer as part of Pellegrini’s vast spending spree and the 21-year-old has caught the eye for the U23 ranks this season, scoring seven goals in six Premier League 2 matches.
His progress was halted by an injury that forced him to spend two months on the sidelines but he returned in style this weekend, scoring a brace and catching the eye once again.
After taking to social media to celebrate the win, plenty of fans took the opportunity to issue their belief that a first-team opportunity should be right around the corner. We have gathered some of their reactions below.
Need you in the first team
— scott elliott (@scottyelliott4) November 26, 2018
@ExWHUemployee we need this kid in the first team or at least the bench 2 months out and finds the net twice on his return. No transfers as he is already ours. Talk about him Wednesday on the show.
— Marcus McDonnell (@BoxRef) November 27, 2018
Hope to see you soon at the first team @xande_silva45 ! Congratulations for your return
— EFootball (@EFootball_) November 27, 2018
Need to see you in the first team. 2 months out and back with a bang. Scoring more goals than Andy Carroll
— Adam Loveday (@AdamLoveday92) November 27, 2018
You’re a beast can’t wait to see you get your chance in the 1st team
— Edward Wood (@EdwardWood4126) November 27, 2018